Wipe Out
 

Thanks to the forum critiques, I am redesigning this portrait. After only three days on single-primed linen canvas, I could not wipe it all back. Any suggestions on how to cover and recreate a workable ground for new painting?

Here is the current state of this "Wipe-Out" attempt...

Interesting question. Just came across a recommendation in Joe Anna Arnett's "Painting Sumptuous Vegetables, Fruits & Flowers".

Mix together 1:1 solution turpentine and 91% isopropyl alcohol (which is stronger than drugstore isopropyl alcohol--you can supposedly order it from a pharmacy). Pour the mixture over the canvas and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Scrape the canvas with a dull palette knife. Don't let the knife dig into the primer level.

I haven't tried it but good luck!

Yikes! Scarey, but sounds like it should work... I'll let you know...

Penny wise & pound foolish?
 

My personal feeling is that any type of severe treatment to the painting ground can only lead to problems in the long run. The KISS methodology seems the wise path to follow. If it were me, I would bite the bullet, restretch and start anew.

Also, I am a strong advocate of color studies to circumvent the sort of problems you seem to be incurring. I believe the final painting should not be attempted until the painting has been fully realized in the artist's mind.

I would also suggest reading the two books authored by Harold Speed on drawing and painting. They are published by Dover Books and in my opinion are two of the finest books ever written on the subject of painting.

Of course, you are correct, Marvin. My teacher said the exact same thing. This experience has taught me the value of preliminaries.

Thank you for the book references as well as the time you took to comment.